Profile
“My strongest professional quality is my ability to build trust and long-term relationships, whether with clients, colleagues, or stakeholders”
Danny Ibrahim,
KeyRate Mortgage
Alissa Bell is a partner and the chair of the board at McVeagh Fleming, a firm she has called home since 2011. Specialising in family law, mediation, and criminal and traffic matters, she leads a dedicated team of lawyers and support staff, guiding them with her clear, pragmatic advice and unwavering focus on achieving strong outcomes for her clients. As a qualified family specialist mediator and collaborative law practitioner, she is widely respected for her ability to navigate complex situations with empathy and professionalism.
In 2023, Bell made history by becoming McVeagh Fleming’s first female chair in the firm’s century-long history – a milestone that reflects both her leadership and her commitment to progress.
A passionate advocate for access to justice, diversity and inclusion, Bell has been instrumental in introducing policies that support flexible work arrangements and part-time partnerships. Her efforts have opened new doors for women and caregivers in the legal profession, helping to shape a more equitable and supportive workplace.
Beyond her work at the firm, Bell is actively involved in the wider legal community. She serves on The Law Association’s Family Law Committee, is a member of the Family Court Association and participates in the international Ally Law network. She is also a sought-after speaker, regularly presenting at CPD seminars and conferences.
As a mentor and advocate for women in law, Bell combines legal excellence with a leadership style that empowers others and drives meaningful change across the profession.
Level 1, South Tower, 5-7 Corinthian Drive, Albany 0632
021 498 494
abell@mcveaghfleming.co.nz
linkedin.com/in/alissabell
mcveaghfleming.co.nz
Alissa Bell
Partner and Chair McVeagh Fleming
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Bio
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Profile
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Bio
Milestones
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Bio
Milestones
“I’ve always believed that if you love what you do, you’ll never settle, and that attitude has guided every decision I’ve made”
Danny Ibrahim,
KeyRate Mortgage
2003
2011
2012
2023
Present
Earned an LLB/BSocSc from the University of Waikato and was admitted to the bar
2003
Joined McVeagh Fleming, specialising in family law, mediation, and criminal and traffic matters
2011
Qualified as a Family Specialist Mediator
2012
Made history as the first female Chair in McVeagh Fleming’s over 100-year history
2023
Recognised in the “Preeminent” category of the 2025 New Zealand Family & Relationship Property Law Doyle’s Guide Rankings
Shortlisted for Law Firm Leader of the Year (≤100 Lawyers), acknowledging her exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and commitment to client service
Active member of the Ally Law international network
Present
Assistant Vice President and Senior Broker at MJ Hall & Company since 2018
Present
Milestones
Aug 2022
Milestones
Sept 2021
Feb 2022
Apr 2022
Jul 2022
Aug
2022
Suncorp Bank introduces Solar Home Bonus offer for customers who are choosing renewable energy for their homes
Sept 2021
Month-on-month market share growth commences
Feb 2022
Suncorp Bank wins the Canstar award for most outstanding value in investment loans
Apr 2022
Suncorp Bank wins Money Magazine’s Bank of the Year and Business Bank of the Year awards for the fifth year in a row
Jul 2022
Suncorp Bank’s turnaround times are the lowest they have ever been. The lender becomes Australia’s first certified carbon neutral bank for both its operation and transaction services
Aug 2022
Milestones
As a founding member of WOW! (Women. Opportunity. Winning.), an employee resource group created for all women of Ryan Specialty, Phillips Topping has long championed for women in the industry.
“It’s very important to set an example and to not only inspire but mentor other females,” she adds.
In addition to her sharp marketing eye, the key to Phillips Topping’s success lies in her high-energy approach and positive attitude.
“As the leader of a team, it’s important to motivate and encourage your team members. People work very hard and do their best and it’s important to recognize these efforts. For my career overall, my attitude has been one of curiosity. The more you can learn, the better you’ll understand the business, and then the deeper your knowledge will become, making you a better team member.”
Chief underwriting officer of executive risk at Chubb
President of financial insurance solutions at Kemper
Chief underwriting officer at Axis Capital
CEO of global Insurance at Endurance
CEO of global Insurance at Sompo International
A significant part of his focus today is staying ahead of regulatory change while maintaining a seamless client experience. He tracks updates from regulators and lenders closely and works with his teams to adjust systems as needed.
“My approach to my role and my career has always been rooted in passion, focus, and a relentless pursuit of excellence,” he says. “I’ve never been driven solely by profit or business metrics. I believe in hiring great talent, trusting them, and pushing boundaries because innovation doesn’t come from playing it safe.”
His experience isn’t limited to Canada. Ibrahim has worked in the US and UAE, which shaped his global perspective and comfort with adapting to different markets. He thrives on risk, viewing setbacks as stepping stones to progress.
“I’ve always believed that if you love what you do, you’ll never settle, and that attitude has guided every decision I’ve made,” he adds.
That outlook continues to guide his work and reflects his broader goal of helping move the industry forward. Through his brokerage, lending company, and legal services, Ibrahim is focused on creating long-term value for his clients, his teams, and others working in the field.